In an interview with Deutschlandfunk on April 3, 2025, Jessica Gienow-Hecht analyzed the implications of Elon Musk’s withdrawal from U.S. politics. 

According to Gienow-Hecht, Musk is being positioned as a scapegoat—potentially serving Donald Trump’s broader political strategy. Given Musk’s long-standing political, ideological alignment with Trump, she questioned whether his influence within Trump’s circle would truly diminish. Gienow-Hecht also noted transatlantic repercussions. Musk’s prior support for Germany’s AfD and his involvement in the 2025 election campaign make his political exit a significant loss for the party, which had benefited from his international backing. The German government would be well advised to observe further developments surrounding Musk and his whereabouts in politics.